Device Analysis
The HS80 MAX Wireless has a toned-down design for a gaming headset. It avoids picking up fingerprints due to its finish and features a subtle and elegant Corsair logo across the headband, while illuminated Corsair logos are on each earcup. For an even more understated look, you can turn off the RGB illumination through its software, which we will see in-depth later in the review.
The build primarily uses high-quality plastic, keeping the weight low while maintaining durability. The metal fork design is a great design decision, as the fork is the typical failure point of most headphones; subsequently, the device’s lifespan should be extended.
Tipping the scales at 352g is a bit heavier; however, comfort is still a strong suit of the HS80 MAX. The use of a strap lets the headphones suspend on it. This eliminates strong pressure points and evenly distributes the weight of the headphones across its contact path with your head. The head strap is also padded and adjustable. By undoing the velcro padding, you can tighten or loosen the head strap until you find your perfect spot.
While some might find the clamping force a bit too much, it will be a good fit for most due to its soft and plush cloth-lined pads. The clamping force helps maintain a good seal around your ears, even when your face moves.
Inside the earcups, you can spot differences between the two sides. The left earcup includes the battery and the PCB, while the right side has a placeholder foam piece to keep the sound characteristics as similar as possible. The microphone swivel mechanism has been upgraded too. Gone is the old plastic bracket in favor of a rubber one.
The buttons have also been revamped. Now, they offer a nice tactile feel and are all textured. A new multi-function button has been added to the right earcup, which is used for Bluetooth control. The volume scroll wheel is the same one found in the HS80 RGB.
Buttons and Controls:
- Tactile buttons with a nice feel
- Power button and volume wheel on one side, multi-function Bluetooth button on the other
- Textured power button for easy identification
- Volume wheel retained from the older model
- Clickable scroll wheel for preset or custom macros
- An LED indicator blinks blue for Bluetooth and green for 2.4GHz mode.
